Mejiro University and the Mejiro area
Mejiro University is an academic institution in Tokyo, established in 1994 under the Mejiro Gakuen Educational Foundation. Its campuses and the surrounding Mejiro district offer an academic and cultural setting alongside gardens, museums, and local shops. The university emphasizes social responsibility, personal growth, community contribution, and lifelong learning.
For information and planning, see the Mejiro University Official Website, Mejiro Tourism website, and Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden site.
History
Mejiro University
As of 2025, Mejiro University comprises six faculties, 16 departments, and a graduate school with seven research divisions. The Mejiro Gakuen Educational Foundation’s legacy spans over five decades, particularly in the field of living sciences.
The university operates three campuses:
- Shinjuku Campus Focused on humanities and located in central Tokyo.
- Saitama Iwatsuki Campus Specializes in health sciences and nursing.
- Saitama Hospital Campus Supports medical and healthcare education.
The university’s principles are:
- Shu (修) Commitment to contributing to society.
- Shi (志) Passionate devotion to study and self-improvement.
- Shin (信) Gratitude toward those who support and nurture one’s journey.
These principles inform a learning culture that emphasizes small-group instruction, strong mentor-student relationships, specialized knowledge, and adaptability. The university also promotes global perspectives through its Japanese Language Education Center and International Exchange Center.
Mejiro district and Shinjuku Gyoen
Mejiro is a serene, upmarket district in Tokyo’s Toshima ward, accessible via Mejiro Station on the JR Yamanote Line (GaijinPot). Its name comes from the mejiro bird, once native to the area. Mejiro’s history as a residential area for daimyo and nobility is reflected in its elegant streets and historic sites.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, one of Tokyo’s premier green spaces, combines Japanese, English, and French garden styles. It was originally a feudal lord’s estate, later became an imperial garden, and has been open to the public since after World War II.
What to see
University and campus life
Mejiro University offers programs in psychology, social work, media studies, health sciences, and nursing. The Ear Institute Clinic and Medical Staff Training Center combine practical training with community outreach. Language programs and cultural exchanges support the university’s international engagement.
Campus facilities include cafeterias, bookstores, and information desks. Green campus initiatives and eco-conscious designs are also part of the university’s sustainability work. Public lectures, exhibitions, and workshops are regularly scheduled.
Mejiro Monument
The Mejiro Monument is a historic landmark dating to the Edo period. Originally established to commemorate notable figures and events, it exemplifies traditional Japanese design and the enduring legacy of the Mejiro district.
Seasonal events include tea ceremonies and music performances; schedules are available on the official website.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
The garden has several distinct areas:
- Japanese Traditional Garden Ponds, teahouses, and seasonal blooms.
- English Landscape Garden Expansive lawns.
- French Formal Garden Symmetrical flower beds.
- Greenhouses Tropical and subtropical plants.
Mejiro neighborhood
The area is home to Gakushuin University, historically linked to the Imperial family, and Mejiro University, contributing to its intellectual atmosphere and cultural venues (GaijinPot).
Other attractions include:
- Mejiro Garden A traditional Japanese garden known for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage.
- Someya Memorial Art Museum Displays Japanese and Western art.
- Mejiro no Mori An urban forest.
- Gakushuin University Campus Notable for its architecture.
- Artisanal boutiques, craft shops, independent bookstores, and eateries ranging from traditional soba restaurants to French patisseries (Lexion13).
- Hidden spots including secret cafes, architecturally distinctive homes, and small shrines (Lexion13).
Mejiro’s compact layout lends itself to self-guided walking or cycling tours, with stops at gardens, art museums, and quiet residential streets (Lexion13). Spring cherry blossoms and June’s lush greenery are seasonal highlights (Time Out Tokyo). Festivals such as Sanno Matsuri are accessible from Mejiro.
Visiting information
Mejiro University
- Shinjuku Campus hours Visitors are welcome from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays. Weekend access is limited.
- Campus tours Available by prior appointment; English-language options are available upon request.
- Admission Free for self-guided and guided visits.
- Location 4-31-1 Nakaochiai, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo. Accessible via the Seibu-Shinjuku and Toei-Oedo subway lines.
- Accessibility The campus is wheelchair-friendly, with ramps and elevators throughout.
Mejiro Monument
- Hours Open daily, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission Free. Guided tours are available for a nominal fee and can be booked online or at the visitor center.
- Getting there A 10-minute walk from Nakai Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line. Parking nearby is limited.
- Accessibility The grounds are fully wheelchair accessible, with paved paths, ramps, and rest areas.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
- Hours
- March–October: 9:00 AM–4:30 PM; last entry 4:00 PM.
- November–February: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM; last entry 3:30 PM.
- Closed Mondays, or the next day if Monday is a holiday, and December 29–January 3.
- Tickets
- Adults: ¥500.
- Children under 15: Free.
- Seniors aged 65 and over: ¥250.
- Tickets are available at the gate or online through the official site.
- Getting there Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station on the Marunouchi Line; Sendagaya Station on the JR Chuo-Sobu Line; or a short walk from Shinjuku Station.
Mejiro neighborhood attractions
- Mejiro Garden Open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed Mondays.
- Someya Memorial Art Museum Open 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed Tuesdays.
- Mejiro no Mori Open 24 hours; free admission.
- Gakushuin University Campus Accessible during daylight.
- Tickets for local attractions can be bought onsite at entrances. Someya Art Museum may offer online booking for select events.
Tips
- For a quieter visit to the Mejiro Monument, choose a weekday or an early weekend morning. Cherry blossom season is especially picturesque.
- At the monument, morning or late-afternoon light is suitable for photography. Follow site rules: drones and flash photography are not allowed.
- Shinjuku Gyoen’s peak seasons include cherry blossom season in March–April and autumn foliage in November. Picnicking on lawns is not allowed, and pets are restricted to service animals. Most paths are wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available to borrow. Personal photography is permitted; commercial shoots require permission.
- Mejiro’s spring cherry blossoms and June greenery are seasonal highlights. Accommodation should be booked ahead during peak seasons (Lexion13).
- Mejiro is pedestrian-friendly, and bike rentals are available. Some English is spoken; translation apps can be helpful. Respect local customs and privacy, especially in residential areas.
- The monument is family-friendly, and children are welcome. English tours are available with advance booking.
- Most Mejiro attractions are wheelchair-accessible, though some outdoor areas may have uneven ground.
Nearby places
- Gakushuin University Notable for its architecture and history.
- Mejiro Park A tranquil place to relax.
- Local dining Cafes and restaurants serve traditional and modern Japanese cuisine.
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and Meiji Shrine Nearby attractions mentioned as options for a wider Tokyo itinerary.
Frequently asked questions
Mejiro University
Do I need tickets to visit Mejiro University?
No. Campus visits and tours are free.
Are guided tours available in English?
Yes, on request.
Is photography allowed on campus?
Photography is allowed in public areas. Seek permission before photographing individuals.
Are international visitors welcome?
Yes. International guests are supported through the International Exchange Center.
Mejiro Monument
Are English tours available?
Yes, with advance booking.
Are children welcome?
Yes, the site is family-friendly.
What events are held at the monument?
Seasonal events include tea ceremonies and music performances. See the official website for schedules.
Mejiro neighborhood
What are Mejiro Garden’s visiting hours?
9:00 AM–5:00 PM; it is closed Mondays.
How do I buy tickets for local attractions?
Tickets are available onsite at entrances. Someya Art Museum may offer online booking for select events.
Are attractions accessible?
Most are wheelchair-accessible, although some outdoor areas may have uneven ground.
When is the best time to visit Mejiro?
Spring for cherry blossoms and June for rainy-season greenery.
How do I get to Mejiro?
Take the JR Yamanote Line to Mejiro Station.
